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Paul Graham: The Top Idea in Your Mind (Do you have attention sinks?)

Hey girls and guys,  I found the space to dive into another powerful essay from Paul Graham. Please find 15 minutes to read and think about ...

Thursday, August 19, 2021

Tube to Tee: Sudbury Golf Club


Dear Harvey:

I Googled 'golf courses close to train stations' (in London) and found ten such places. Today's adventure was Earl's Court to Sudbury Station (the Piccadilly Line) and Sudbury Golf Club. The first time I've gone from a 'tube' to the first tee, and it sure was easy and fun.

I loved the golf course, and it was in superb shape, especially the greens. Harry Colt designed the original layout in 1920, two years after he teamed with George Crump to design Pine Valley. The weather was perfect (70 degrees and sunny) with a light breeze, which was a welcome feeling after swinging in the howling winds at North Berwick last week.

Played my game. Carded an 86. Then sat in the bar overlooking the course, next to an OLD rock, for a BLT, some cheesy chips, and a local IPA before zipping back by tube to our temporary Air BnB. The whole trip cost around 50 pounds.

Taking dead aim,

gPage








Letters to Harvey from The Kingdom:

Other 'golfy' scribblings:
"Millions of people were charmed by the homespun golf advice dispensed in Harvey Penick's Little Red Book, a sports classic that became the best-selling sports book of all time. Yet, beyond the Texas golf courses where Penick happily toiled for the better part of eight decades, few people knew the self-made golf pro who coaxed the best out of countless greats -- Tom Kite, Ben Crenshaw, Betsy Rawls, Mickey Wright -- all champions who considered Penick their coach and lifelong friend." - Kevin Robbins, author of Harvey Penick: The Life and Wisdom of the Man Who Wrote the Book on Golf.
"And if you play golf, you are my friend." - Harvey Penick
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Tuesday, August 17, 2021

A couple of gems: Muirfield and North Berwick

 
Dear Harvey:

We have had an incredible second week in the UK thanks to excellent planning by Taylor. We took the train to Edinburgh (with the girls) and played Muirfield and North Berwick. Above, photos from Muirfield, where the caddies, their stories, and excellent weather made the whole experience all the better.

Yes, we did the famous lunch in 'smart' clothes; but not the afternoon foursomes, and honestly, I am not certain I could have gotten around again after the lunch! The property is stunning. I loved the paths between holes, where I am told you can get anywhere on the golf course within a 10-minute walk. I managed to break 90, and Taylor bested me by a few, so all-in-all, an incredible day.

After a relatively calm day at Muirfield, we were greeted with 35-40 MPH gusts the next day at North Berwick. Our caddy said, "Swing easy and try to survive the first nine." I heard, "Swing out of your shoes, Page!" You can imagine how that turned out on the outward nine. I did have a solid inward nine, carding a 42, so righted the ship a bit. Taylor with another solid round in the 80s.

Edinburgh did not disappoint. We did a challenging hike known as Arthur's Seat - an ancient volcano sitting 251m above sea level with great city views. We also walked the Royal Mile in the heart of the city.

Plus some outstanding dining with the last night being the best at a place called Dishoom - Bombay Cafe Bar and Dining Room. 

The train rides with the beautiful countryside and coastal views were equally memorable.

And the town of North Berwick was extraordinary as the golf course and town are all one. The beach shot below is right beside the first tee. Around the bend, we found the marina and the lobster shack. Feels a lot like Maine, which is a good feel.

Excited for more bucket-list courses ahead,

gPage











Letters to Harvey from The Kingdom:

Other 'golfy' scribblings:
"Millions of people were charmed by the homespun golf advice dispensed in Harvey Penick's Little Red Book, a sports classic that became the best-selling sports book of all time. Yet, beyond the Texas golf courses where Penick happily toiled for the better part of eight decades, few people knew the self-made golf pro who coaxed the best out of countless greats -- Tom Kite, Ben Crenshaw, Betsy Rawls, Mickey Wright -- all champions who considered Penick their coach and lifelong friend." - Kevin Robbins, author of Harvey Penick: The Life and Wisdom of the Man Who Wrote the Book on Golf.
"And if you play golf, you are my friend." - Harvey Penick

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Stay whole and HBD Taylor Wilkinson

Cathy:

Taylor is kind, patient, tolerant, and fun. I appreciate that he has the patience to tolerate Page and me moving to London and landing in his space. He always treats us with kindness. We had a fun and adventuresome trip to Scotland. Thanks, T, for being such a great son-in-law!

Taylor is a gentleman. He is always there to lend a helping hand - including trip planning, deciphering British paperwork, and cleaning the kitchen. I hope you have a great birthday today and look forward to celebrating Thursday!

Kyle:

Taylor, I always enjoy the time we get to spend together, including your most recent visit stateside. I look forward to being your official brother-in-law in the future. 

I admire the risk you took in your journey to the UK. Every successful person that had to work for their success took risks along the way, and I think this will pay off big for you in the long run. Keep working hard and building that book of business.

gPa:

I could not have wished for a finer son-in-law. Taylor is genuine, reflective, patient, smart, and driven. He loves Sally in every way and supports her dreams and keeps her grounded. They are a great team and it makes me very proud to have T as such an important member of our family.

Taylor planned an amazing golf trip to Scotland. My first two rounds of UK golf were Muirfield and North Berwick. Wow! It does not get any better than that.

Lucy:

I love how Taylor is so adventurous! Moving to England or just climbing a little mountain in Scotland, he is always up to explore and try something new. I’m thankful that T knows when to take the reigns and lead us in directions (because none of us are good at directions) and encourages us to try new things. He’s the best addition to our fam and I’m glad we all get to explore Europe with you!

I love T’s generally chill demeanor - it sounds silly but T is one of the most laid-back people I know. He can do anything and be around just about anyone in any situation with a great attitude. Taylor is someone I would always choose to be around. Love u T! happy 31st! 

Emily:

I love that Taylor is always so rock solid. He’s extremely easy going and is always a team player. He doesn’t stir the pot but does observe, support and laugh along. I know Sally loves all of these qualities and he is a very sturdy husband. Haha

I love the adventurous side of T that we have gotten to see grow as he moved to London with Sally! I’m so proud of them for trying something new and it seems like T has really gotten settled with his new job and enjoying traveling/exploring when they can.

Sally:

I love how T was willing to go on such a big adventure with me this year and worked so hard to make moving to London happen for us. Even though this year didn't look exactly how we imagined it would, we had the best time with each other, and I wouldn't trade one minute of it. I don't think I have ever laughed so much in a year! I look forward to all that is ahead with a lot more travel and being out and about, but I will always cherish our year in lockdown, just the two of us making the best of it! I am so lucky to be married to someone who is up for a challenge and makes the most of opportunities.  

I love how dedicated Taylor is to all that he does. He works hard to be the best form of himself by reading, writing, working out, working hard at his job, spending time with God, etc. He is solid, and I admire how he lives his life so balanced. No matter how crazy things seem, I find so much peace in knowing I have such an incredible partner in Taylor. The more time passes, the more I love and appreciate Taylor and feel so lucky to call him my husband.

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Sunday, August 8, 2021

Exploring London: First Week in the Old Country

Hey Lucy,

We can't wait to see you tomorrow. We are averaging 30,000 steps a day, so bring your walking shoes! Wishing you a smooth and enjoyable flight. 

Above are photos from one of the parks we have explored: Hyde Park. The green spaces are amazing, and the weather has been spectacular. Highs in the low 70s, with scattered showers and a nice mix of sunshine, just as advertised! Chilly at night, so be prepared to wear jackets and sweaters in August.

We are in Chelsea, ten minutes by foot from Sally and Taylor. The city of London is divided into boroughs.

"Greater London is a ceremonial county of England that makes up the majority of the London region. This region forms the administrative boundaries of London. It is organized into 33 local government districts—the 32 London boroughs and the City of London, which is located within the region but is separate from the county."

We have been popping down south to Wimbledon, Richmond, and Surrey to look at rental homes. Have also enjoyed time in Piccadilly Circus and Notting Hill. Too many iconic sightings to capture, but a few highlights are below. The public transport systems are super easy to navigate, including rides on our first double-decker buses. Only one Uber ride in a week, otherwise train, bus, or foot.


Made a friend when we first arrived at the village of Wimbledon. Baylor tennis standout Matios Soto. He lost his singles, and doubles matches in the ITA National Indoor Championships versus none other than the Tar Heels! Confirmation here. We will take the tour of The All England Lawn Tennis Club next week with you.

Wimbledon makes me think of our Great Uncle Bob Colwell, the second president of the USTA, then called the United States National Lawn Tennis Association. As a boy, I saw Seattle-based Uncle Bob and Aunt Margaret every summer in Virginia Beach in July, and they were always heading to Wimbledon. 'Little boy Page' never imagined living in Wimbledon!

Above was our first trip to Richmond upon Thames by train. Popped off the 'District' line strolled through the village for lunch, and then Petersham Meadows trails, eventually ending at Petersham Nurseries. To say that England has gardens is like saying Texas has cattle. 

From our Underground station (Earl's Court) to Wimbledon or Richmond is a 20-30 minute ride, and virtually all of it is above ground. Trains leave every 5-8 minutes.

Below is The Sporting Page, the first pub we visited, and right beside Park Walk, the street Kyle's company, Park Walk LLC, was named after. Like gardens, there are many pubs. People tend to think of the local pub the way we think of our family room. Just pop in and relax for a while. The beer seems plenty cold to me, but I am told I have not yet ordered a 'warm' beer.

The city is clean and easygoing. Not the hustle-bustle feel of New York City, but more like a casual walk around Town Lake in Austin. No horns honking and few sirens blaring. The streets are all tree-lined, and the architecture is stunning and old. In Chelsea and surrounding towns, buildings are approximately five stories, so not a big skyline feel. The trees are taller than the buildings, and (as noted) parks, green spaces, and gardens are everywhere. Mom and I have been working out in a little park next to our Airbnb most mornings, opting to be outside rather than in a local gym. We did a church service this morning at St Mary The Boltons. Our first time back in an actual church since Covid. Felt good.


On Wednesday evening, I spontaneously ventured five minutes down from Sal and T's place to catch the friendly between Chelsea and Tottenham at iconic Stamford Bridge Stadium. Wore my new Chelsea jersey (a gift from my Autodesk colleagues) and my UNC Soccer hat, fully expecting to land a ticket. Just a little friendly, right? Tickets were nowhere to be found, so I will be going back another time for my first match. The Premier League opener is next Saturday!

The hike below was called the Beverly Brook Walk. We started in Barnes and walked the trail in reverse to Wimbledon, going through Richmond Park and Wimbledon Commons. An abundance of wildlife, flowers, and meadows. There is a nine-hole 'muni' in Wimbledon Commons known at the London Scottish Golf Club. You must wear a red shirt or jacket to play the course. Be sure to read the history section. The gentleman in the photo was from Detroit and had purchased his shirt for 24 pounds in the pro shop. 


Noticed the date on the spring water when we finished our hike. I suppose that is why we call this the old country! Piccadilly Circus was a fun excursion. I imagine you will love the shopping. And lastly, very bottom, are photos from yesterday's walk to Notting Hill, where we strolled amongst the bright colored homes and through the huge street fair, eventually ending up at the best margarita maker in London, or so says Sally, before walking home via Holland Park.



That's a wrap for week one. All-in-all a great start to our new adventure.

Love,

Dad
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Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Hugging Harvey Goodbye and off to London for a Bit


Hey Lucy,

Well, I said my goodbyes to Harvey and started the final steps in Austin before departing to London for several years. Sold the Highlander at Carvana. (Easy peasy.) Friday morning breakfast with my Rudy's 360 Men's Group. Great bunch of guys. We've been gathering and breaking things down for 15 years! Love my Chelsea jersey complements of colleagues at Autodesk. Goodbye Texas brisket, breakfast tacos, and Westlake Football.

Below, a shot from on the ground in London. Cleared customs, collected eight large bags, and into a BIG black cab in less than an hour. Amazing! Have been here for three days enjoying temps in the low 70s. Exploring Chelsea, where we are staying for the first 30 days and the villages south of London (Wimbledon, Richmond, Barnes) where we hope to find permanent housing.

Love,

Dad


Letters to Harvey from The Kingdom:

Other 'golfy' scribblings:
"Millions of people were charmed by the homespun golf advice dispensed in Harvey Penick's Little Red Book, a sports classic that became the best-selling sports book of all time. Yet, beyond the Texas golf courses where Penick happily toiled for the better part of eight decades, few people knew the self-made golf pro who coaxed the best out of countless greats -- Tom Kite, Ben Crenshaw, Betsy Rawls, Mickey Wright -- all champions who considered Penick their coach and lifelong friend." - Kevin Robbins, author of Harvey Penick: The Life and Wisdom of the Man Who Wrote the Book on Golf.
"And if you play golf, you are my friend." - Harvey Penick
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